Sleep apnea is a medical condition in which breathing repeatedly stops and starts during sleep. This can lead to disrupted sleep patterns and reduced oxygen levels in the blood. Dr. Justin Maxwell offers oral appliance therapy for patients diagnosed with mild to moderate sleep apnea. Dr. Maxwell screens for the signs and common risk factors for sleep apnea during routine dental care visits.
There are three main types of sleep apnea: obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), central sleep apnea, and complex sleep apnea. Obstructive sleep apnea is the most common type and occurs when the throat muscles relax excessively. Central sleep apnea happens when the brain doesn’t send proper signals to the muscles that control breathing. Complex sleep apnea is a combination of both obstructive and central sleep apnea. Our office also provides general, cosmetic, and restorative dentistry treatments to new and existing patients.
Symptoms of Sleep Apnea
If you are concerned about sleep apnea, seeking a proper diagnosis is essential. Dr. Maxwell can screen for the oral signs of sleep apnea and discuss lifestyle and medical history, but a general physician will perform testing and provide a diagnosis. Common symptoms can include:
- Snoring
- Waking during sleep, gasping for air
- Difficulty concentrating during the day
- Feeling groggy in the morning
- Irritability
- Dry mouth when waking
Untreated sleep apnea can lead to several health problems. These include high blood pressure, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and complications with medications and surgery. It can also cause poor performance in everyday activities like work and school due to lack of sleep. Sleep apnea has been shown to affect your ability to concentrate.
Diagnosis and Treatment Options
To diagnose sleep apnea, Dr. Justin Maxwell may recommend a sleep study, either at home or in a sleep center. This study monitors various body functions during sleep, such as breathing patterns, heart rate, and oxygen levels in the blood. Proper diagnosis is crucial for effective treatment.
One common non-invasive treatment is a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine. This device helps keep the airways open by providing a steady stream of air through a mask. Other options include oral appliances that reposition the jaw and tongue to keep the airway open. The CPAP is considered the most effective means of treatment for patients with severe symptoms or health complications.
Dr. Maxwell provides oral appliance therapy to treat sleep apnea. Oral appliances are a convenient and effective treatment option for many patients with mild to moderate symptoms. These devices are custom-made to fit comfortably in the mouth and help keep the airway open during sleep. Regular dental check-ups ensure that these appliances are functioning correctly and providing the best possible benefit.
Adopting healthy habits can significantly impact the management of sleep apnea. Avoiding alcohol and smoking, both of which can relax the muscles in the throat, is essential. Regular physical activity and a balanced diet can also make a significant difference. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial. Excess weight can contribute to the severity of sleep apnea by increasing the amount of tissue around the airway. Regular exercise can help in weight management and improve sleep quality.
Establishing good sleep hygiene is also important. This includes maintaining a regular sleep schedule, creating a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding caffeine close to bedtime. These practices can help improve overall sleep quality.